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The Bigger Picture
Luke 8:1 'After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God.'
 The Kingdom of God wasn't some 'hobby' or idle pastime for Jesus. It was the first priority of his life and ministry. The Kingdom of God is mentioned more than one hundred times in the gospels, usually in the teaching of Jesus. The word for 'church' (ecclesia) is given only three times. Does that mean that the church is not important to Jesus? Definitely not! In fact, the rest of the New Testament is about the birth and development of the church. And Jesus said that hell itself would not prevail against the church that he would build! But Jesus wanted us to get our priorities right, so that we build for the right goal. You see, if you're a leader in a church, you're not called just to build that church – you're called to build God's Kingdom in that city! That's a much bigger purpose, and one worthy of the investment of your entire life. If you're in business, you're called to build the Kingdom within the business community. What a high calling! Whatever your sphere of influence, your calling is to spread the Kingdom through the power of Jesus in that area. If we seek first that Kingdom, we will see all the other things we need added to us.
Prayer: 'Lord, help me today to focus first on building your Kingdom. Help me to spread the influence of your rule and reign in every area of my life and relationships. Your Kingdom come!'
© 2003-2004 Mal Fletcher
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It was a real blessing to have you with us in Norwich. You showed us an inspiring professional edge as an example of the greatness required for influence.
Owen, UK
Wow, awesome tool for an information hit!
Anon
Mal, thanks for sacrificing your spare time to visit us at Newcastle CLC! Your insight into our current culture & your passion for acting upon the calling of Christ on our lives has inspired a young church in one of the best parts of Europe!
David Wright, United Kingdom
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